Sailors from RNAS Culdrose at Helston have been taking part in relief operations in the Caribbean where communities have been devastated by struck by Hurricane Irma.

The crew of naval ship RFA Mount’s Bay dropped off supplies at the British Oversea Territory Anguilla before moving to the British Virgin Islands. The ship’s company includes a team from MASF (the Maritime Aviation Support Force) from Culdrose.

Supplies of aid stores, clean water and medical supplies were dropped off on Tortola, the largest island in the group, which was severely damaged by Hurricane Irma. Aid was also airlifted by the ship’s Wildcat helicopter from RNAS Yeovilton.

Islanders on Tortola on the British Virgin Islands, which was struck by Hurricane Irma (Image: Royal Navy)

The hurricane has produced sustained winds of more than 185mph and is one of the biggest on record. It has caused widespread destruction across the region, including in Cuba and Florida. Buildings have been levelled, homes flooded and at least 25 people are known to have died.

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It has now reduced to a tropical storm after sweeping in across Florida at the weekend with winds of 130mph. In its wake, many islands have been left in ruins and rescue operations are under way.

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The navy ship RFA Mounts Bay arrives off the British Virgin Islands, which were struck by Hurricane Irma (Image: Royal Navy)